Kathmandu— Nepal’s Health Insurance Board began offering online enrollment, renewal, and personal information updates for the National Health Insurance Programme last Friday, streamlining access to healthcare coverage for its citizens. Previously reliant on assistance from enrolment assistants, individuals can now independently manage their insurance through a digital platform. The move aims to improve efficiency and accessibility of the program, which has enrolled over 5.9 million people since its launch in 2016.

Digital Transition for Insurance Services

Board Spokesperson Dr. Pawan Kumar Shah explained that the new system allows individuals to complete enrollment forms online without needing assistance from enrolment assistants. This digital transition is formalized under the Procedure on Enrolment in Health Insurance and Renewal of Insurance Policies through Electronic Means, 2083 BS.

According to Dr. Shah, both prospective enrollees and existing policyholders can now utilize the online portal for enrollment, renewal, and updating their Know Your Customer (KYC) information. Enrollment assistants are also able to use the digital system to facilitate enrollments and renewals.

Payment Options and Coverage Details

Payments for the National Health Insurance Programme can be made through popular digital payment platforms including 'e-sewa', 'Khalti', and 'Connect IPS'. This provides convenient options for citizens to manage their contributions.

The program offers coverage of up to Rs 100,000 (approximately $750 USD) in health services annually for a family of up to five members upon payment of an annual contribution of Rs 3,500. An additional fee of Rs 700 provides coverage for each additional family member, with an added benefit of Rs 20,000 in health services per person. The Board also offers supplemental coverage of up to Rs 100,000 for eight specific serious illnesses.

Program Enrollment and Growth

Since its launch in 2072 BS (2016), the National Health Insurance Programme has enrolled a total of 5,970,403 people across Nepal. The Board hopes that the new online system will further expand access to health insurance for citizens throughout the country.

The Health Insurance Board anticipates continued growth in program enrollment as the online platform becomes more widely adopted and utilized by Nepali citizens.

(With inputs from RN)

Originally published on abcnews.com.np.